Failure to Properly Store and Cover Food Items in Kitchen Freezer
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to store, prepare, distribute, and serve food in accordance with professional standards for food service safety in the facility's only kitchen. Specifically, a packet of frozen pork and vegetable eggrolls was found loosely wrapped in a plastic bag and kept in an open cardboard box inside the walk-in freezer. This food item was not properly covered, labeled, or dated, as required by both facility policy and the Food and Drug Administration Food Code. Multiple staff interviews confirmed that it was the expectation and responsibility of all kitchen staff, including cooks, dietary aides, and the dietary manager, to ensure all food items were appropriately covered, labeled, and dated at all times. The facility's policy on food storage and the FDA Food Code both require that frozen foods be covered, labeled, and dated to prevent cross-contamination and maintain food safety. Staff interviews revealed a consistent understanding of these requirements and the risks associated with non-compliance, such as cross-contamination, freezer burn, and potential foodborne illness. The deficiency was identified through direct observation and confirmed by staff acknowledgment that the uncovered food item was not in compliance with established standards.